Almost a year removed from an unforgettable final second knockout loss by Max Holloway at UFC 300, former interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje believes that with an impressive performance in his Rafael Fiziev rematch this weekend, he’ll put himself in contention for another chance at 155-pound gold.
Unlikely or not, Gaethje gunning for another title tilt
Exciting lightweight Justin Gaethje has twice fallen short at championship level, first by impending Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov in October 2020 and then a frantic first-round defeat by Charles Oliveira 19 months later – both by submission.
He’s tried turning the exciting tag into a more calculated one, seven years after successive defeats by Eddie Alvarez and Dustin Poirier caused him to think differently about how entertainment doesn’t always translate to long-term success.
While that style is easier to implement on paper than execute once hit flush on the chin and your adrenaline takes over, many were pleasantly surprised by the maturity he showed in his first Rafael Fiziev meeting at UFC 286. Two years ago this month, plenty has changed since then — not to mention another crushing stoppage loss.
Earning co-main event billing at UFC 313 this weekend, Gaethje wants a return to the title conversation and at this stage of his career, it’s at the forefront of his mind.
When asked about potentially earning a title shot, he said: “As an athlete competing here, I have to think that. I hope for, but have no idea. I have to go in there and win, first and foremost. I’m always exciting, the most consistent guy that’s stepped in there. The way I win and my fights usually go, I’ll definitely be in consideration for it.”
Gaethje was originally slated to face Dan Hooker before the New Zealander suffered a fractured left hand injury requiring surgery and Fiziev gladly accepted a short-notice opportunity to avenge one of his defeats instead. The opposition choice didn’t matter, The Highlight wasn’t going to shy away from another chance to shine.
When asked about that, he added: “I think if I started worrying about the risk, then I would just retire. This is a very risky sport, I love the intensity that it brings and I’m yearning to get back in there and feel that.”
Mo and Sports 